Looking to elevate your appetizer game with a burst of Mediterranean flavor? This "Marinated Feta with Lemon Olive Oil" recipe is your ticket to a culinary delight that will have your taste buds dancing! In just 15 minutes, you can transform simple feta cheese into a zesty and aromatic masterpiece that’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. With the tang of lemon, the richness of olive oil, and the fragrant touch of fresh herbs, this dish is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 200g feta cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary), for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 200g of feta cheese, 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1 lemon (for zesting and juicing), 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 clove of garlic, and fresh herbs such as thyme and rosemary for garnish.
- Cut the feta cheese into bite-sized cubes or crumble it into smaller pieces, depending on your preference. Place the feta in a medium-sized, airtight container or a shallow dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, and crushed garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. This mixture will serve as the marinade for the feta.
- Pour the marinade over the feta cheese, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. If using a shallow dish, you may want to gently toss the feta to ensure even coverage.
- Cover the container or dish with a lid or plastic wrap. Allow the feta to marinate at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the cheese.
- After marinating, taste the feta and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice, olive oil, or oregano according to your preference.
- Transfer the marinated feta to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for extra flavor.
- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as thyme and rosemary for an aromatic touch. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds additional flavor.
- Serve the marinated feta with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish hinges on the quality of your feta cheese and olive oil. Opt for a good-quality Greek feta and extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
- Experiment with Herbs: While thyme and rosemary are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano, basil, or even chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Marinate Longer: If time permits, let the feta marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This will intensify the flavors and make the cheese even more delicious.
- Serve with Variety: Pair the marinated feta with a variety of accompaniments like olives, roasted vegetables, or a selection of artisan bread to create a stunning mezze platter.
- Presentation Matters: When serving, drizzle some of the marinade over the feta for a glossy finish and garnish with extra herbs for a pop of color.
- Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the lemon juice and oregano according to your preference. A little taste test can go a long way in achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
